This alternative does not disengage the United States from Central America But. rather. it proposes a more affirmative and I believe a more effective alternative for pursuing our interests in Central America. It proposes to work with our friends in the region. and specifically supports the Contadora effort. an effort which has been given lip service by the President but which. in truth. has never been given a real commitment. The Hamilton alternative proposes to reach out and help the people who are suffering in Central America. our neighbors. about whom we are truly concerned. by providing refugee assistance while the political process is given a fair and meaningful opportunity. Will this alternative policy succeed? Is there any guarantee that it will be effective?